ATKINS — On Sunday, July 1, 2012, Howard David Pitts, known to family and friends as Tex, went to be with his Lord.

He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Peggy Ehemann Pitts of Oklahoma City, Okla.; his five children and their spouses, Ruth and Ronnie Knuckles of Dardanelle, Roy and Janet Pitts of Atkins, Ryan and Patrizia Pitts of Virginia Beach, Va., Roberta and Mark Riojas of Blanchard, Okla., and Renee Pitts and Roger Morris of Oklahoma City, Okla.; 10 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his two older sisters, Hazel Ann Davis of Fort Worth, Texas, and Zeta Ruth Boyd of Austin, Texas, along with many members of the Ehemann and Pitts families.

He was born June 26, 1938, and raised in Austin, Texas. During his lifetime, he proudly served in the U.S. Air Force for 23 years, receiving many honors, credentials, accolades and medals for his exemplary service. Tex served his country honorably during the Vietnam War. He retired at the rank of master sergeant. After retirement from the military, he went on to graduate from Arkansas Tech University with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He was employed by and retired from Tinker AFB after 20 years as an aircraft mechanic.

Tex was involved in coaching the Special Olympics. He was an avid sports enthusiast. He loved every aspect from coaching to participating and cheering on his favorite teams. He was a huge Texas Longhorn fan.

Tex enjoyed traveling the world with his beloved wife.

He passed away peacefully surrounded by his family after battling cancer. He will be dearly missed and always remembered.

Mass will be 9 a.m. Saturday at the Catholic Church in Atkins followed by a graveside service at the Atkins Catholic Cemetery. Arrangements are being handled by Lemley Funeral Home.

Online obituary and condolences are available at www.lemleyfuneral.com.